In this deeply personal and vulnerable episode, Deb shares a major announcement: Beyond Budgets® is going on pause. After two and a half years of hosting this podcast, she steps back to focus on an unexpected and challenging health journey. But this isn't just a goodbye; it's a powerful reflection on what happens when even the best-laid plans fall apart.

Episode Highlights

• (00:00) Podcast Put on Pause

• (00:35) Life Plans vs. Reality

• (06:4)] Faith, Suffering, and Hope

• (20:10) Hold Goals Loosely

• (31:30) Recenter on Family, Faith, and Values

Deb explains her decision to step away from the podcast (for now) while navigating ongoing medical uncertainty. She reflects on the impact the show has had and where listeners might still find her voice in the future.

A lifelong planner, Deb wrestles with the uncomfortable truth: even the most disciplined plans cannot prevent life's curveballs. This episode reframes planning as something flexible, not rigid.

With no clear diagnosis yet, Deb shares what it's like to live in the "in-between"—where answers are delayed, and fear can creep in.

• Give Yourself Permission to Grieve

• Cling to Hope (Even When It's Hard)

• Hold Plans Loosely

• Break Out of Routine

• Refocus on What Matters Most

Deb shares real client examples showing how financial plans must evolve with life changes, especially during health crises or major transitions.

• Life won't always follow your plan, and that's not failure.

• Financial plans should be living, breathing guides rather than rigid scripts.

• Uncertainty can be a powerful teacher of priorities.

• Revisit past episodes, especially:

• • Episode 2: Shaping Your Family's Future with Core Values

  • Episode 18: Turning Dreams into Reality with Values-Based Financial Planning

• Follow the podcast so you're notified if and when it returns

• Watch for potential future content on the Catholic Money Mastermind podcast

Connect with Host Deb Meyer, CFP®

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What if raising financially responsible kids isn't about teaching them to save more but rather helping them understand what actually matters?

In this episode, Catholic financial planner and host Deb Meyer sits down with David Delisle, creator of The Awesome Stuff™, to explore how our relationship with money is shaped early. Learn how parents can guide their kids toward more intentional choices without constant conflict.

David shares a simple yet transformational question that can shift how your family approaches money:

👉 "Is this my awesome stuff?"

This conversation blends mindset and practical parenting strategies to help you raise kids who spend, save, and give with purpose.

• (01:46) Why "more money" doesn't solve the real problem

• (05:00) The issue with labeling kids as savers or spenders

• (08:40) Teaching money through everyday moments

• (​​10:20) A simple question that changes everything

• (16:30) Letting natural consequences do the teaching
  
  

1. When should I start teaching my kids about money?
   As soon as they start asking you to buy them something. At that point, they're ready to begin learning about choices and trade-offs. This is the case even if they don't understand dollar amounts yet.

1. How do I teach money without overwhelming my kids?
   Keep it simple and conversational. Use relatable comparisons (like toys or treats) and focus on helping them make smart choices instead of memorizing numbers.

1. What's the best way to handle it when kids constantly ask for things?
   Instead of saying yes or no, ask: "Is that your awesome stuff?" This shifts the decision back to your child and reduces power struggles.

1. How do I balance letting kids choose while still teaching responsibility?
   Set spending boundaries, but allow freedom within those limits. Let natural consequences teach lessons when possible.

1. What if my kids have very different money habits?
   That's normal. Avoid labeling a child naturally inclined to spend as "better" than one who typically saves money (and vice versa). Focus on helping each child understand what truly matters to him or her.

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What's the right way to pass wealth to the next generation? How much inheritance is too much?

We explore the deeper questions behind inheritance planning in this Beyond Budgets® episode … questions about stewardship, generosity, and financial responsibility. You'll learn how to balance financial legacy with personal growth and create an inheritance plan that aligns with your family's values.

Net worth is only one part of the equation, and money amplifies character (or lack thereof). Inheritance can lead to overspending, entitlement, and a lack of direction without proper guidance. Smart estate planning includes trustees who guide beneficiaries and flexibility for real-life needs.

Listen to this episode if you're a parent who wants to define your family's version of "enough" and the related episode 12, Mastering Estate Planning.

Episode Highlights

• [0:00:00] – The dangers of comparison, greed, and lifestyle inflation

• [0:04:46] – How to determine "how much is enough" vs. "too much" inheritance

• [0:17:26] – How to use Roth IRA matching to build good money habits in children

• [0:20:00] – How donor-advised funds can create a family culture of giving

• [0:27:56] – Pros and cons of liquid vs. illiquid assets like real estate and family businesses

Q&A

1. What is considered too much inheritance?

There is no fixed dollar amount that defines "too much" inheritance. It becomes excessive when it reduces a beneficiary's motivation or ability to develop financial independence. The focus should be on preparing heirs, not just funding them.

1. How can parents prevent inheritance from creating entitlement?

Parents can prevent entitlement by:

• Teaching financial literacy early

• Encouraging saving and investing habits

• Modeling generosity and stewardship

Both have value. Liquid assets provide flexibility and immediate access, while real estate and business assets can build long-term wealth. A balanced mix is typically the best strategy.

Both can coexist. Generosity during life can teach values, while a thoughtfully structured inheritance can support future generations without creating dependency.